As freezing temperatures set in and chill the Bronx, residents should prepare themselves and their homes for the cold.Local hardware stores stocked their shelves with

THE BRONX - As freezing temperatures set in and chill the Bronx, residents should prepare themselves and their homes for the cold.

Local hardware stores stocked their shelves with items to help winterize homes, like spray foam insulation and caulking material. Experts say the spray foam is easy to use and can help seal doors and windows to keep out cold air.

In addition to spray foams, regular caulking material can be used to seal small nooks by applying thin tips to the top of the tubes. For older windows, experts recommend using plastic shields, which can be applied using a hair dryer. The thin layer of plastic can prevent cold drafts.